Whether you are a social smoker or a lifelong pack-a-day smoker, quitting can be very tough. However, with the right preparation and determination, you can overcome this most health damaging of habits.
The first thing that you need to do when you decide that you want to quit is formulate a plan of action. This is important, as if you plan well, there is a much higher chance that you will be able to quit for good, as well as making the whole transformation into a non-smoker that much easier.
Quitting, of course, is never going to be easy, but if you follow these steps, you can help to reduce both your cravings and the initial shock of stopping smoking.
1. Fix a Date
The first thing to do is fix a date for quitting. You can tell your friends and family and the people that you work with. Once you have set the date the ball has started rolling and your have made the first important step.
2. Disposal
Throw all of your cigarettes, tobacco and lighters into the bin. Give your ashtrays away and wash everything that may still have the lingering smell of cigarette smoke on it. This may include your car, your clothes and even your curtains.
3. Exercise
Exercise can help to lessen the cravings for tobacco. You can go for a walk or run or even get out on your bike if you have a craving for a cigarette. If you are in the office, you could try squats, push ups or knee bends. Some people actually take on an exercise regime as a way of changing their routines and their habits.
4. Quitting Assistance
You could also invest in professional help. There are all kinds of therapies available to help you quit, from relaxation courses to hypnotherapy for smoking cessation. A lot of people need the extra help, so don’t be afraid to ask if you find that your are struggling on your own.
5. Medications
If the physical craving for nicotine is very strong, you can ease it with smoking cessation medications. You can buy nicotine patches and well as gum that can help to ease these physical cravings. If you talk to your doctor, he or she may be able to prescribe you with a medication to suit your needs.
6. Make Lists
If you find that you are craving a cigarette, make a list of all the reasons why you have quit. Write them down carefully on a notepad, detailing each reason. This helps to remind you why you quit, as well as helping to keep your mind and your hand busy during moments of craving.
7. Change Your Drinks
Some drinks may remind you of smoking and actually make you crave nicotine. Try to avoid drinks that you would have smoked a cigarette with. If you replace coffee with fruit teas and soda with juices, it may well help to curb your craving for nicotine.
8. Avoid Trigger Situations
Try to avoid trigger situations or be prepared for them. This may mean changing your break routines at work and the people that you take them with. In situations where you would have smoked a cigarette like taking on the phone or watching TV have an alternative planned. A pen and paper to doddle with or maybe a rubber squeeze ball will give your hands something to do.
Quitting smoking is never going to easy for anyone, but with the right planning and the right help and support, it is in the grasp of everyone.
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Gameanna – FreeDigitalPhotos.Net
